The loss of South County Supervisor Paul Teixeira is a blow for county government, but it also will be deeply felt by the many community organizations, large and small, that benefited from his support and dedication to public service.

Teixeira, 57, may not have been the most vocal member of the board, but his actions truly did speak louder than words. Even before he took office as county supervisor, for example, he was reaching out to help his future constituents. That was especially appreciated in Oceano, where Teixeira toured a flooded neighborhood and met with residents and officials in an effort to get ahead start on solving drainage problems that had long confounded the community.

His list of involvements is long, varied and spans many years: He served on the Lucia Mar Unified School District Board and the county Parks and Recreation Commission before he was elected supervisor in 2010. He also was involved in 4-H, FFA, Jack’s Helping Hand — an organization that helps children with disabilities — Rotary, Dana Adobe and many others.

Of the many accolades that have flooded our newsroom, our favorite quote is from this kind-hearted, generous man himself: “I’m a people person; I can get along with anybody.”

Indeed. While not everyone always agreed with his politics — including The Tribune’s editorial board — on a personal basis, Paul Teixeira was held in high esteem, valued for his willingness to help, his sense of humor and his genuine kindness.

We offer our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. He will be greatly missed. Several local officials share their thoughts below:

“He was bighearted. He’d do anything for anyone. It’s just a reminder to all of us that you never know what the next day will bring. He will be sorely missed.” — Debbie Arnold, county supervisor

“Paul Teixeira was a wonderful man with a great sense of humor and such a strong love of life. Service was a huge part of who Paul was, and he gave so much to the Lucia Mar school district and specifically to our Nipomo schools.

“He served on the board of trustees for four years and always looked out for the interests of the students. Paul was so down to earth, humble and so much fun to be with. He was a very happy man who loved his family above all else, and he was the kind of husband, father and friend we all strive to be. We will all miss him tremendously.”

“I am saddened to hear of the passing of Supervisor Paul Teixeira. Paul was a kind man who cared for his constituents, and I am honored to have worked with him. I send my condolences to his wife, Deanne, and their children.” — Congresswoman Lois Capps

“Today, San Luis Obispo County lost a dedicated public servant. Supervisor Teixeira represented the best in our elected leaders, compassion for people and a willingness to listen. We at the Home Builders Association offer our prayers to the Teixeiras as they go through this time of grief.”— Wes Willhoit, president, Home Builders Association of the Central Coast